Tracks: The Weeknd, Starry (ft. Daft Punk)

★★★½

Urban contemporary superstar The Weeknd picks up where he left off in 2015 with promo single “Starboy” featuring Daft Punk.

Every savvy artist who’s also a businessman (or woman) understands the importance of seizing the moment. The Weeknd experienced the biggest moment of his career in 2015 when Beauty Behind the Madness became a multiplatinum hit spawning numerous hit singles (“Can’t Feel My Face” and “The Hills” namely). Smartly, The Weeknd capitalizes on his success by returning with his third proper album, Starboy on November 25, 2016. The best way to promote Starboy? Release title track, “Starboy” of course, with the help of Daft Punk.

Like previous singles, The Weeknd flaunts his high-pitched voice in all its distinctive, beautiful glory. Even given its high-pitched nature, The Weeknd himself retains toughness, keeping “Starboy” in line with the explicit singles he’s released previously. He references drugs – specifically cocaine – and drops the M-F bomb (“Look what you’ve done / I’m a motherf*ckin’ starboy”). Furthermore, he flexes:

“All red Lamb’ just to tease you / none of these toys on lease too / mad your whole year in a week too…”

Beyond the lyrics, “Starboy” is superbly produced. After opening with tone-setting distortion, a respectable groove anchors. The overall sound is urban, but there are enough pop cues to give him more crossover success. Daft Punk are by no means the main attraction, but they don’t fade into the background either. The contributions add to the distinctiveness of the record. Also, doesn’t hurt they produce it either.

Final Thoughts

All in all, “Starboy” has the potential to be another hit for The Weeknd. It doesn’t supersede “Can’t Feel My Face” or “The Hills,” but it complements those juggernauts. He sounds as exceptional as ever, while Daft Punk provide a great lift.

The Weeknd • Starboy • Republic • Release: 11.25.16

Photo Credit: Republic

Publishing Note: This track review was originally posted on The Musical Hype on September 26, 2016.